RAVE-A View Facotrs Code for Arbitrary Geometry with Shadowing

Abstract

A prototype version of the RAVE code for the determination of view factors between surfaces of arbitrary shape and orientation is now available from HTFS, This code calculates view factors between polygons using Monte Carlo and line integral methods of numerical integration. Arbitrary shadowing bodies which may obscure parts of the receiving surfaces are accounted for. Curved surfaces are modelled by polygonal patches in the prototype - for example a cylinder is represented by a multi-sided right prism. Numerical results are accurate (typically 5% or better) within a range consistent with statistical expectations for the number of random points used, as well as with results calculated in other ways. All determination of the identity of obscuring surfaces and visibility of target surfaces is included within the code. The input is free format and designed for simplicity.